West Nile Virus precautions urged

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NEW YORK — The Westchester County health department says a mosquito batch has tested positive for West Nile Virus for the first time this year.

It was collected in New Rochelle.

Last year, seven positive mosquito batches were found in Westchester County and two human cases of West Nile Virus were reported. So far this year, there have been no reported human cases in Westchester.

Precautions include insect repellent and covering up outside in the late afternoon and evening.

Check toys and play houses for standing water.

Turn over containers, wading pools and wheelbarrows when not in use.

Change the water in birdbaths at least twice weekly.

Sweep puddles off driveways after it rains.

Clear storm drains and gutters.

Clean and chlorinate pools and hot tubs and drain water off their covers.